Report: Europe Set to Fine Google in Android Antitrust Case

October 3, 2016

By Developer.com Staff

Reuters is reporting that the European Commission plans to levy fines against Google and order the company to stop offering payments or discounts to mobile device makers in exchange for pre-loading Google apps, including the Play Store and Google Search, on Android smartphones and tablets. The information comes from a 150-page document that the antitrust agency reportedly sent to complainants in the case after previously sending it to Google.

The document says, "The Commission intends to set the fine at a level which will be sufficient to ensure deterrence."

In response, Google released a statement saying, "We look forward to showing the European Commission that we've designed the Android model in a way that's good for both competition and consumers, and supports innovation across the region."

If Android devices in Europe no longer have the Play Store pre-installed, it could mean a significant loss of business for mobile development firms with apps in the store.